Product design philosophy

A product designer adds value through an application of design principles to solve a problem, sympathetic to the user’s needs. Effective application of industrial design is rooted in an understanding of the manufacturing process and material application to facilitate efficient resourcefulness of business capacity.

This understanding forms the foundation for balancing the use of existing manufacturing infrastructure with the innovation needed to surpass its current limitations, ultimately achieving groundbreaking designs through well-executed solutions to problems.

Central to effective product design is a comprehension of the problem the product aims to solve. This understanding is the cornerstone of adding value to the end-user. Problems can range from the straightforward of simplifying everyday tasks to the abstract, such as eliciting deep emotional responses when interacting with a product. Related to this is the dogmatic notion of form following function. If the function of a product is to evoke emotion, then form itself becomes a functional element. Recognizing and addressing the multifaceted nature of these problems is often undervalued but is essential for truly impactfull design. Continuous improvement and iteration is necessary to solving a problem and ultimately releasing a worthwhile product.

Design journey

My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Design (Product Innovation), followed by Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Design. Immediately upon graduation, I joined Stratco as a product designer within their research and innovation team. Over two years, I applied and grew my design skills and developed the ability to collaborate effectively within a cohesive design team in a broader corporate environment.

In a discussion with my employer about ambitions to broaden my horizons, I was offered an opportunity to transfer to Stratco's then newly established manufacturing facility in Cambodia. For three years I navigated the complexities of a new cultural landscape and tackled myriad challenges, marking the most demanding period of my professional life. This experience was crucial for my personal and professional growth, enabling me to assume significant responsibilities. My duties included setting up manufacturing processes and conducting continuous assessments to enhance efficiency and system robustness. I also played a pivotal role in machine troubleshooting and maintenance, quality assurance, and safety management. I trained and collaborated with local staff, addressing quality and safety issues, made effective through understanding and integrating cultural frameworks. Adhering to modern lean manufacturing principles and training staff in these methodologies yielded substantial enhancements in operational efficiency.

Working in such a challenging and diverse environment taught me invaluable lessons. Throughout my time in Cambodia, I continued to develop new products for Stratco, benefiting from immediate access to manufacturing facilities, which streamlined the prototype design and production process.

After an enriching and transformative experience in Cambodia, I returned to the Stratco Adelaide design team with a renewed perspective and enhanced skills. Stratco has provided the opportunity to practice the entire product design process of brief, prototype iteration, prototype fabrication, engineering testing, manufacturing implementation, production drawings, technical illustration and continual product improvement.

My technical proficiencies in parametric CAD modeling and Computer Aided Manufacturing enable me to create flexible, adaptable 3D models that can be easily adjusted and optimized throughout the design process, ensuring precision and efficiency in the transition from digital designs to physical production. I’ve always had an innate desire to make things such as furniture, motorbikes and products. This has lead to a lot of time using tools and machinery to provide me with fabrication skills of wood working, lathe work, milling, welding, metalwork, Painting, 3D Printing, Mould Making and Casting.

Gained insights

My extensive industry experience has translated to industry knowledge, continuously informing my design decisions and enabling me to create products that resonate with users and facilitate business growth. One of the most significant aspects of my work has been the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team of professionals working closely with fellow designers, engineers, logistics, manufacturers and management.

I have an intrinsic desire to pay attention to details, as reflected in my approach to product design, and understanding of materials and manufacturing processes. The ability to integrate material knowledge, manufacturing capabilities, and design theory is paramount. This synergy not only results in superior product quality but also ensures that the solutions are finely tuned to the problems they aim to solve. Achieving this level of design sophistication places a product at the cutting edge, driving both product and business success. Furthermore, the iterative process of refining and enhancing a design is vital. Each iteration is an opportunity to incorporate feedback, adapt to new information, and push the boundaries.

Throughout my career, I have continually sought to expand my knowledge and skills. My educational background in product innovation and design theory has provided a solid foundation, while my professional experiences have allowed me to apply these principles in real-world settings. Working at Stratco, I have had the opportunity to develop a wide range of products, each with its own unique challenges and requirements. This diversity of experience has honed my ability to think creatively and to approach problems from multiple perspectives.